The North Central Railway (NCR) has taken a significant step toward sustainable rail travel by launching a pioneering pilot project in its Prayagraj Division. The initiative aims to power train lights, fans, and mobile charging points using solar energy, marking a major shift toward greener rail operations. The project officially began on July 14, 2026, with the first solar-assisted sleeper ICF non-AC coach successfully commissioned on July 23, 2026, as part of the Prayagraj-Dadri Express.
Key highlights of this sustainable initiative include:
* Installation of a 6.93 kWp (approx. 7 kWp) solar photovoltaic setup on the coach roof.
* Annual clean energy generation of approximately 13,400 to 13,500 units (kWh) per coach.
* Estimated annual savings of 2.80 lakh to 3 lakh rupees per coach.
* Environmental impact reduction of 11 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, equivalent to planting 500 trees.
Innovation and Implementation
This initiative was envisioned by NCR General Manager Naresh Pal Singh and brought to life by the technical teams of the Prayagraj Division. According to Chief Engineer Pulkit Srivastava, the majority of the project was executed using the railway’s internal resources, showcasing the efficiency of the local engineering teams. The solar setup works by capturing sunlight to charge a dedicated battery bank, which then powers the coach’s electrical amenities independently.
Future Expansion Plans
Dr. Shivam Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer for North Central Railway, confirmed that the Jhansi Workshop is currently working on the construction of additional solar-paneled coaches. The railway administration plans to monitor the performance of this pilot coach closely over the next month. If the results meet expectations, the railway intends to scale up the project by equipping two additional coaches per month with this technology. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of Indian Railways to integrate green energy and technical innovation into its existing fleet, ensuring a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly future for passengers across the network.